There are lots of things to love about DC (the culture, the monuments, the free museums…not the traffic). But you may not have realized what a bounty of entrepreneurs we have within the Beltway. Here are 10 businesses you need to check out. This is stuff we love, made in Washington DC.
Kate Bakes Bars: Looking for healthy snacks to keep on hand? Try these to-go bars in several flavors. Did I mention they’re vegan and gluten free? {If you're an Alexandria, Virginia native, you'll find these bars at Misha's coffee shop.}
Lori Katz Ceramics & Mixed Media: If you’re looking for original art, you need to scoop up one, two…maybe three of Lori Katz’s works of art. I’m especially a fan of her minimalist black white and gold pieces.
Dolcezza Gelato: With several locations around the DC Metro Area (DMV), Dolcezza is basically an institution based on quality product and local ingredients. You can get their fantastic (seriously, fantastic) gelato shipped to you right now!
Meg Biram Art: These one of a kind show stoppers are major statement pieces. Snap up her in demand almost marbled paintings that feature subtle moments of metallic gold or pearlized white.
Compass Coffee: Coffee fanatic? So is basically everyone in DC. Compass is a new spot but their attention to detail is nothing short of spot on. With several bean qualities available, order one of each and pick your favorite!
‘Chups: Not sure what it is about Americans, but for some reason we think ketchup is only tomato! Not so! ‘Chups will open your mind to mango ketchup and even plum! Buy it for your cookout come summer.
Capital Kombucha: The first kombucha producer in DC, this ancient beverage is having a resurgence! Experience fermentation in nice packaging at your next party.
Diana Chamberlain Porcelain: This could be one of the most fantastic wedding gifts you could give a bride. Diana offers custom porcelain creations of your wedding dress that last beyond the big day.
Gretchen Rabner Goldsmith: There is no greater joy than finding one of a kind jewelry. Gretchen Rabner is the perfect artist for those who love structure and intense lines mixed with gemstones. Buy a statement ring and I’m positive people will stop you on the street to ask where it’s from.
No. 1 Sons: From regular dills to kale kimchi, No. 1 Sons has long been a staple of my weekly runs to the farmer’s market. I have never, ever been disappointed by their products and am always delighted to try the latest option. Marsala beets were my anthem of 2014.
Guest writer, Carlene Thomas RDN is a nutritionist and food stylist in Northern Virginia. Her book: The Wedding Wellness Workbook: Your Nutrition How To Before “I Do” focuses on wedding wellness: helping brides be happier and healthier. She also spends her time in the communications world, food styling and testing recipes. Follow her on Twitter too at, @CarleneHEA.
Image Credit: Jill Homiak, 2014 Cherry Blossom Season
Don't miss our list of products made in Maryland, and Virginia!
Chups sound like something my husband would really love!
I didnt know they made much of anything in Washington DC. I mean I know there is a town there, but thats about it. The Dolcezza Gelato looks really good.
The wedding dress sculpture is really unique!